The latest diplomatic blunder by India, namely the calling off of the Foreign Secretary-level talks with Pakistan, amounts to shooting oneself in the foot (Editorial, “ >Over-reaction to an irritant ,” Aug. 20). The logic of having a constant dialogue and engaging Pakistan is that you can’t wish away your neighbour, even if it is a nuisance. By sulking and cancelling the talks that could have given it a chance to put across its strong views on ceasefire violations and other urgent issues, New Delhi has acted in an immature manner.
Shahabuddin Nadeem,
Bangalore
India should not have cancelled the talks. The move will have a direct impact on the Nawaz Sharif government, which has been working to normalise India-Pakistan relations. It is well known that it is the Pakistan Army, not the civilian government, that wages a proxy war against India.
Sachin H. Nadagaddi,
Mangalore
In reality, neither the mainstream political parties nor the secessionist Hurriyat leaders reflect the concerns of the common Kashmiri person. No third-party intervention is needed in Kashmir; it can be solved in accordance with and within the framework of the Indian Constitution. Summits like Agra and Lahore make way for a positive mindset and mutual understanding. Good relations between India and Pakistan are important as they are immediate neighbours. Rivalry will only harm democracy in the two countries.
Gowhar Naz,
Kupwara
Pakistan has always taken India for granted. Almost all sections, cutting across party lines, appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s gesture of inviting Nawaz Sharif for his swearing-in. Pakistan spoilt the bonhomie, first by resorting to unprovoked firing across the border. And then, to add insult to injury, the Pakistan High Commissioner invited the separatist Kashmiri leaders for discussions, before the Foreign Secretary-level talks. It is a clear sign of running with the hare and hunting with the hounds. Under the circumstances, India’s decision to call off the talks is welcome.
N.G. Subramaniam,
Thiruvananthapuram
Does the onus of holding or cancelling talks with Pakistan lie only with India? There should be times when India takes firm action against Pakistan's moves to disrupt peace. The cancellation of the talks will send a message to not only Pakistan but also the international community that India will not tolerate interference in its internal matters.
Aditi Sharma,
Jaipur
Separatists have taken advantage of our democratic ethos and are mocking at us by advancing their cause so openly. No self-respecting country will allow separatists to play out their agenda in such a public manner. Only a few days ago, the Hurriyat leaders gave a call for the boycott of Independence Day celebrations in the Kashmir Valley. It is time to call their bluff. It is not enough to say Kashmir is an integral part of India. Pakistan should not be allowed to set the bilateral agenda. As long as Kashmir dominates the agenda, there is no point in engaging with it. Hats off to Mr. Modi for taking the first step in this direction.
S. Sundar Rajan,
Nagercoil
